Do you get nervous on match day?

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Do you get nervous on match day?

Football can be a nervy sport at times and it can feel like there’s lots of pressure on you.

At Regents Park, we want you to enjoy your football, play without fear and express yourself on the ball.

It’s important to know that being nervous is very natural. Nerves create adrenaline which makes your heart beat faster, so how can we transform this nervous energy into something positive?

1. Movement - first, accept that nervousness is normal. Begin to jog around on the spot, warm yourself up before your match, perhaps even talk to your coach or a team mate.

2. Focus on your breathing - focus on slow, deep breaths… breathe in for 5 seconds, hold for 7, and breathe out for 9.

3. Perspective - remember, your match is a great learning opportunity for you. Don’t get too caught up in the result!

4. Create a routine - many athletes have a routine before they play matches. Some players like to meditate before the game to calm themselves down. Others like to visualise in their head how the game will go, picturing themselves performing well.

We hope these tips can help you combat your nerves this weekend. We look forward to seeing you at Regents Park!